National Weather Service issues heat warning for Pima County

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for much of southern Arizona, including much of Pima County.

The Excessive Heat Watch takes effect Saturday, June 16 and extends through Wednesday, June 21, as daytime temperatures reach well into the 100s. High temperatures are expected to reach 107 degrees by Thursday. Daily highs will remain extreme, reaching 110 degrees Sunday and 113 degrees and more in some parts of the Tucson area by Monday.

As temperatures climb, the Pima County Office of Emergency Management advises to limit daytime outdoor activities and increase fluid intake during times of hot weather, regardless of activity level. When outdoors or engaged in strenuous activities or exercise in a hot environment, drink 16 to 32 ounces of cool fluids each hour.

Here are some additional precautions to take:

Stay inside during the hottest times of the day

Avoid outdoor activities or limit them to the morning and evening hours

Avoid direct sunlight

If you do go outside, wear loose, light-colored clothing and use a shade hat or an umbrella to block the sun

If you or someone near you has prolonged exposure to excessive heat, the following symptoms of heat-related illness could occur:

Weakness

Muscle cramps or spasms in extremities or abdomen

Blurred vision

Headache

Nausea

Fainting

If any of these symptoms are present, cease activity, seek a cool place to rest and drink plenty of water. Also consider seeking medical attention if symptoms persist.

In more extreme cases bordering on heat stroke, the following symptoms may be present:

Red face

Chills

Restlessness

Throbbing headache

Confusion

Loss of coordination

Seizure

If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical help immediately. Also, cool the person experiencing the symptoms rapidly in a bathtub of cool water or a cool shower; spray with cool water from a garden hose; or sponge the person with cool water.

Do not give someone with signs of heat stroke fluids to drink.

Learn more about heat-related illness at the Pima County Health Department’s website.

The Pima County Office of Emergency Management has launched an Emergency Alerts Website to keep the community informed prior to, and during large-scale emergencies. The website serves as a central source for information on any developing events and also provides preparedness resources and relevant contact information. Emergency Management also maintains a mass notification system that alerts residents in times of emergency. Sign up for emergency alerts at MyAlerts.Pima.gov.